Samsung Electronics invests in U.S. DNA sequencing firm Element Biosciences

Samsung Electronics will participate as a strategic investor in U.S. DNA sequencing equipment maker Element Biosciences (“Element”).

Samsung Electronics and several other companies participated in Element’s recent $277 million Series D funding round.

Founded in San Diego in 2017, Element develops DNA sequencing technology that combines low costs with industry-leading accuracy. The company launched its mid-throughput AVITI DNA sequencing system in 2022 and is expanding globally while developing new technologies.

DNA sequencing is the process of reading the sequence of bases that make up DNA—the blueprint of living things—to identify genetic variations and traits.

Genomic information obtained through DNA sequencing can be used in a wide range of areas, including identifying inherited traits and predicting disease risk, detecting diseases early and monitoring their progression based on genetic variations, and developing personalized treatments. As a foundational technology for the future of precision medicine, it is expected to have significant long-term growth potential.

In the future, DNA sequencing data could be combined with hospitals’ clinical data and everyday data on sleep, exercise and other activities to enable personalized health care, the ultimate goal of medicine.

The investment will allow Element to use Samsung Electronics’ AI and IT technologies to improve DNA sequencing accuracy and reduce costs, creating opportunities for business synergies in data-driven precision medicine research.

Samsung Electronics plans to combine its AI capabilities, medical devices and digital health technologies with Element’s DNA analysis technology to explore new business opportunities across fields ranging from medical devices to digital health. The companies expect to identify new areas for collaboration.